CNN: Blue Mind Beach Yoga

Posted on Aug 3rd, 2015

(CNN) Soothing, inspiring and restorative: That's how beachgoers and yogis alike describe their favorite pastimes. Rightfully so, as there can be stress-busting health benefits of both. Why not take your yoga practice to the coast to boost your beach bliss and your overall well-being?

Over the past decade, numerous studies have shown that yoga can quell our stress response, enhance our mood and improve our health. Now, emerging research is revealing the ocean's power to do the same.

In his book, Nichols, a researcher and marine biologist, uses research and anecdotal experience to explain how the sensory aspects of water -- the sight, sound, feel, smell and taste -- affect our brains to produce what he calls a "blue mind" state of calm inspiration.